Murder accused in custody

Shane Kerisimasi, who is accused of murder, has been placed in custody after failing to appear in court.

He was scheduled to appear before His Honour, Chief Justice, Patu Tiavasue Falefatu Sapolu on the matter of the 2015 murder of a man from Luatuanuu.

This was confirmed by the Police Spokesperson Su’a Muliaga Tiumalu during his weekly press conference with the media.

“I want to elaborate that the accused is not a prisoner,” said Su’a. “I was told that he was on bail but he was supposed to appear in court but instead he failed to appear and I’m not sure when he escaped from court.

“All I know is that I was on duty last week on Saturday when the Ministry received a call that this young man had been found.”

Su’a said the aumaga of A’ufaga, Lepā had caught him.

“The accused is charged with murder,” said Su’a.

“The Ministry will also take this time to acknowledge the support of the community especially the ali’i and faipule and the aumaga of A’ufaga for catching this man.

“Thank you for your support we know that we wouldn’t have been able to catch the accused if it wasn’t for your help.

As for the accused, Su’a said he is now safely in custody.

“He is now being held and his case will again be mentioned next week before the Chief Justice.”